When the grid goes down, having one of the best 13000 watt generators can be the difference between a stressful night in the dark and a comfortable evening with the AC running and the fridge humming.
At this power level, you aren’t just charging phones; you are essentially running a mobile power plant capable of supporting high-draw appliances like central air units, well pumps, and electric ranges. Whether you prefer the convenience of natural gas or the high energy density of gasoline, modern units now offer incredible fuel flexibility. In this guide, I’ll break down the top-rated 13,000-watt options to help you secure the perfect safety net for your home.
13000 Watt Generator Comparison Summary
| Generator Model | Fuel Type | Peak/Running Watts | Engine CC | Key Benefit |
| DuroStar DS13000MXT | Tri-Fuel | 13,000 / 10,500 | 500cc | Whole Home Backup |
| WEN TF1300iX | Tri-Fuel | 13,000 / 10,000 | 550cc | Clean Inverter Power |
| Westinghouse WGen12000DF | Tri-Fuel | 13,500 / 12,000 | 713cc | High Peak Surge |
| DuroMax XP13000HX | Dual-Fuel | 13,000 / 10,500 | 500cc | Reliability & Safety |
| Green-Power America | Gasoline | 13,000 / 10,000 | 459cc | Budget Friendly |
DuroStar DS13000MXT Tri-Fuel Generator
The DuroStar DS13000MXT is a beast of a machine designed for those who want zero compromises during an emergency. With its 500cc engine, it delivers massive output while offering the versatility of gasoline, propane, or a direct line to your home’s natural gas supply. This “MXT” model is specifically built to be transfer switch ready, meaning you can easily hook it into your home’s electrical panel to power your furnace and lights without a web of extension cords.
I especially like the remote electric start, which lets you fire it up from inside your house during a storm. A small luxury that feels like a lifesaver when it’s pouring rain outside.
Pros
- Tri-fuel capability offers maximum refueling flexibility.
- Includes a remote start for added convenience in bad weather.
- Robust 500cc engine handles heavy surge loads from AC units.
Cons
- Very heavy unit; requires two people for loading into a truck.
- Natural gas output is slightly lower than gasoline wattage.
WEN TF1300iX Tri-Fuel Inverter Generator
If you need to power high-end laptops, OLED TVs, or smart appliances, the WEN TF1300iX is arguably one of the best 13000-watt generators in the inverter category. Unlike traditional “open frame” units, this inverter produces clean, stable electricity with minimal harmonic distortion. The 550cc engine is surprisingly quiet for its size, and the inclusion of a CO Watchdog adds a critical layer of safety by shutting the unit down if carbon monoxide levels get too high.
It’s an ideal “best of both worlds” pick. It is a massive power capacity paired with the refined delivery of a smaller camping inverter.
Pros
- Inverter technology provides safe power for sensitive electronics.
- The 550cc engine runs significantly quieter than standard models.
- Features a CO Watchdog for enhanced operator safety.
Cons
- More expensive than non-inverter models.
- Maintenance on inverter components can be more complex.
Westinghouse WGen12000DF Tri-Fuel Generator
Westinghouse is a household name for a reason, and the WGen12000DF earns its spot by pushing the boundaries of peak power. With a massive 13,500 peak watts, this unit is built to kickstart the heavy motors in your home that other generators might struggle with.
The tri-fuel system is incredibly intuitive, featuring a simple dial to switch between gas, LPG, and natural gas. It comes with a remote start key fob and is fully transfer switch ready with a 14-50R 50-amp outlet. For homeowners who have a natural gas line and want a “set it and forget it” fuel source, this is a top-tier contender.
Pros
- Exceptional 13,500 peak watts for high-demand startups.
- Easy-to-use fuel selector dial simplifies the tri-fuel experience.
- Hardened steel frame and never-flat wheels offer great durability.
Cons
- Fuel consumption is high when running at near-full capacity.
- It is quite loud under a 50% load or higher.
DuroMax XP13000HX Dual Fuel Generator
The DuroMax XP13000HX is the gold standard for dual-fuel reliability. While it skips the natural gas option of its “HXT” sibling, it masters the balance between gasoline and propane. Propane is a favorite for many because it doesn’t gum up the carburetor and can be stored indefinitely, making the XP13000HX perfect for people who only use their generator once every few years. It features the “HX” series CO Alert technology, ensuring your family stays safe from exhaust fumes. It’s a workhorse that feels incredibly solid and is a favorite among those who need serious job site power or a dependable home backup.
Pros
- Proven 500cc OHV engine known for long-term durability.
- Dual-fuel design is easier to maintain for occasional users.
- High-quality digital command center monitors volts and runtime.
Cons
- Lacks natural gas support for those with home lines.
- The 50-amp outlet is great, but the unit is very bulky to store.
Green-Power America 13000 Watt Gasoline Generator
For those who want raw power without the added cost of multi-fuel regulators, the Green-Power America 13000W is a high-value gasoline-only option. It’s built for the user who keeps a few cans of stabilized gas in the garage and wants a straightforward, easy-to-operate machine.
Despite its lower price point, it doesn’t skimp on features like electric start and a 12V DC charging outlet for automotive batteries. It’s 49-state approved and works perfectly as a job site power source or a high-capacity backup for those on a tighter budget.
Pros
- Most budget-friendly price point for the 13,000-watt class.
- Simple, reliable recoil and electric start system.
- High-capacity fuel tank provides an impressive runtime on gas.
Cons
- Gasoline only; no flexibility for propane or natural gas.
- Not CARB-compliant for sale in California.
Tips for Choosing the Right Generator
Before purchasing one of the best 13000 watt generators, keep these three essential factors in mind:
- Fuel Choice: If your home has a natural gas line, opt for a Tri-Fuel model. This provides an unlimited fuel supply, so you’ll never have to worry about running out of gasoline or propane during an extended outage.
- Device Type: If you plan on powering sensitive electronics like laptops, gaming consoles, or smart TVs, an Inverter model (such as the WEN) is your best bet for clean, stable power. For basic appliances like lights, fans, and refrigerators, a standard generator is more than sufficient.
- Safety Features: Always prioritize a generator equipped with a CO (Carbon Monoxide) Sensor. This life-saving technology automatically shuts down the unit if toxic fumes reach dangerous levels, protecting your family and pets.
